I don't see what the problem is.
It's a pretty simple rule, peeps! December 31st! In database! Twelve! Three! One! Database!

Yes, people don't
exclusively release/discover games through the database (as has been pointed out, announcements in CGA are usually how the community becomes aware of newly released games), but the database entries greatly simplify the process of compiling a list of any given years eligible games.
This information, iirc, is directly tied to the generation of each years voting system. It's also the
only rule in regards to eligibility, and not really an awful lot to ask. It takes about the same (if not less) time as creating a CGA thread.
There's been a some discussion lately about how the database functions (ratings, classes, user control, etc), and it's got me a-thinkin'! In regards to the awards and release dates, I'd like to see a process where the creation of a CGA thread triggers an automatic listing in the database, containing bare-bones information, which can then be embellished upon by that game's author at their leisure. This would ensure that all dates correlate, regardless of how the game was announced. I don't know if this would be viable, but since our forum profiles are already tied to the database, it seems like a logical step. It would also avoid possible claims of delaying a games inclusion in the database to avoid a particularly strong awards line-up (not that I believe
anyone would be
that determined to win).
To return to a point bicilotti made: The AGS awards are community awards, and it's nice when the authors invest in and engage with the community, and take the time to participate in the awards (by ensuring award eligibility, etc).
As for
commercial games, I've long since held the opinion the commercial games should only be eligible for
one possible award: Best Commercial Game. No offense to commercial developers (or, indeeed, non-commercial developers), but I don't consider the two interchangeable. Like I said, though, it's just my opinion.

Anyhow, thanks to bicilotti for (again) hosting our awards!